🌄 Stewards of Nature

Did you know there are many local Los Angeles area organizations, trust funds, and groups whose purpose is to act as stewards of open spaces, nature and to preserve them and teach future generations how to help preserve and enjoy the delicate nature spaces in and around Los Angeles?

We'll add to the list below, as we discover these special organizations!

iNaturalist

iNaturalist is a joint initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society.  Burbank NJC is a member of iNaturalist.

Nature for All

Nature for All has been working to protect the public lands and green, open spaces around Los Angeles and connect Angelenos to nature since 2008, when we formed as the San Gabriel Mountains Forever coalition. Since then, we have expanded our mission to conserve resources and be more climate-resilient; create more natural spaces such as parks and bike paths in our historically underserved neighborhoods; and connect people and public lands through more trails and other outdoor recreational opportunities, to improve public health.

Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers & Native Plants

Theodore Payne Foundation inspires and educates Southern Californians about the beauty and ecological benefits of California native plant landscapes.

Fond Land Preservation Foundation

The Fond Land Preservation Foundation was established in 2004 from the generous gift of Rosemary Ann Fond through her estate planning.  In April 2005, the Fond Land Preservation Foundation purchased a significant number of parcels of land, totaling 495 acres within the Verdugo Mountains in the City of Los Angeles, located between the communities of Shadow Hills and La Tuna Canyon. 

Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy

Through direct action, alliances, partnerships, and joint powers authorities, the Conservancy's mission is to strategically buy back, preserve, protect, restore, and enhance treasured pieces of Southern California to form an interlinking system of urban, rural and river parks, open space, trails, and wildlife habitats that are easily accessible to the general public.

Native Plant Finder

Native plants support local ecosystems better than introduced species, primarily by supporting food webs far better than non-natives. From perennial wildflowers to berrying shrubs to majestic canopy trees, native plants are beautiful and functional choices for any landscape. Many are just as ornamental as common exotics. They are unique to your geographic region! When you plant natives, you celebrate your natural heritage and reconnect your yard or garden to the natural world around you. Plus, native trees and flower beds typically require less fertilizer and water than lawns, saving you time and money!

Wildlife evolved alongside the native plants in your region and use those natives as food, shelter and a place to raise their young. As a result, nearly every living creature on the planet relies on native plants for survival. They are the foundation of local food webs, giving butterflies, birds and other wildlife what they need to survive.